Contact Someone:

David Servan-Schreiber advises in his books on stress, depression, and cancer that contacting friends, colleagues, or companions is very important for our health. It helps maintain a good mood and makes us feel supported.

Spending time with friends can become more difficult over time as older relationships fade and we slowly lose touch due to distance or life changes.

However, there are many ways to meet people: NGOs, charities, sports clubs, yoga or Pilates classes; Any shared activity can help us find new friends if we feel alone. Sometimes, it’s simply a matter of going out and doing something with others. We just need to share time and see what comes from it.

Participating in a “language swap” or “language exchange” is also a great way to meet people from different cultures and backgrounds.

It is also important to recognise that being on our own is often a by-product of society, which emphasises “Social success“; Having lots of friends around. When we see someone alone, we may quickly (and unfairly) assume they are weak or have a problem.

I personally do not think this perception is correct, though, and while isolating ourselves entirely can be unhealthy, solitude is not inherently negative.

In reality, being alone can be a sign of strength. It takes courage to be on our own, and solitude can help us reflect, reconnect with ourselves, and take steps toward building the life we truly want.

A very good, non-intrusive way to stay in touch with old friends is by sending cards; For birthdays, holidays, or other celebrations. Even if someone doesn’t actively maintain contact, receiving a card is almost always a pleasant surprise.

This is a common and lovely tradition in the UK, where beautiful and funny cards can be found in many shops. (Link)

Sending a card can bring joy: you take the time to write your thoughts, and it helps maintain a connection. It is tangible, heartfelt, and leaves a lasting impression.

Sometimes people say, “Your best friends can be counted on one hand.”

That may be true. In any case, today the internet offers better tools than ever before. Social media platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, and others allow us to stay in touch with a broader circle of people.

However, it is said that once you exceed around 150 connections, it becomes difficult to maintain deep friendships. Having 150 people in your network allows you to stay in touch with different circles; close friends, acquaintances, workmates, and so on; But keeping close relationships with all of them is simply not possible. Still, social media offers something the world has never had before.

Steve Jobs, CEO and co-founder of Apple and Pixar, delivered a commencement address at Stanford University for the class of 2005 (Link):

“Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma—which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most importantly, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.”
― Steve Jobs

Also, remembering ways to help reduce the Risk of Cancer :

“Reach out to at least two friends per week for support—both logistical and emotional—especially during times of stress, even if it’s through the internet. But if they’re within arm’s reach, go ahead and hug them—often!”
― David Servan-Schreiber